The setae-like fragments are similar
to those found in gilts fed ETC in a previous experiment. Two of the five gilts
fed ETC had fetal loss (see Eastern Tent Caterpillars
Cause Abortions in Pregnant Pigs, Sept 5, 2003). In both this mare and the
affected gilts, presence of setae were associated with an inflammatory reaction.
No such fragments were found in gilts not fed ETC.

We emphasize that this observation
is for one non-pregnant mare, and that these findings must be verified in larger-scale,
controlled trials. Our experiments are funded through the University of Kentucky
College of Agriculture and USDA:ARS.